WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao government is preparing plans for a new prison, improvements to existing detention facilities, and a registration system for undocumented migrants as part of a comprehensive reform of the justice sector announced by Justice Minister Shalten Hato.
The initiatives are included in the Ministry of Justice's Policy Agenda for 2025–2029, presented on October 27, 2026, under the theme “Strengthened Justice – For a Safe, Fair and Stable Curaçao.”
The agenda places considerable emphasis on modernizing the justice system, improving detention conditions, strengthening rehabilitation programs, and developing a more sustainable approach to migration.
Curaçao prison
One of the most significant proposals involves preparations for the construction of a new prison in Curaçao.
The ministry also intends to improve infrastructure at the Curaçao Detention and Correction Center (SDKK) and the Judicial Youth Institution Curaçao (JJIC).
These improvements form part of a broader effort to promote humane detention conditions and strengthen the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals in custody.
Greater Focus on Rehabilitation and Reintegration
Under the new policy framework, the government wants to expand opportunities for detainees to receive education, vocational training, and support that can help them reintegrate into society after their release.
The ministry also plans to strengthen forensic healthcare services within the justice system.
The proposed approach recognizes that detention should address not only punishment and public safety but also the circumstances that may influence whether former detainees successfully return to society.
By improving educational and rehabilitation opportunities, the government aims to strengthen the prospects for reintegration.
The agenda does not specify when construction of the proposed prison would begin, where it would be located, or how much the project would cost.
It also does not provide a detailed timetable for the planned improvements at SDKK and JJIC.
Registration System for Undocumented Migrants
Migration policy represents another major component of the government's justice agenda.
The ministry intends to develop a registration system for undocumented individuals residing in Curaçao.
It also plans to evaluate the possibility of introducing temporary legalization arrangements under specific conditions.
According to the policy framework, the objective is to establish a sustainable migration system that respects human rights while protecting public order.
The proposed measures would require the government to determine how undocumented individuals could be registered and under what circumstances temporary legal status might be considered.
The ministry has not yet announced eligibility criteria, application procedures, or a timetable for any possible legalization initiative.
Consequently, the policy proposal should not be interpreted as an announcement of an immediate legalization program.
The government intends to examine these possibilities as part of a broader review of migration management.
Digitalization and Faster Government Services
The ministry also wants to modernize justice-related services through digitalization, innovation, and more efficient administrative procedures.
Among the priorities is reducing waiting times for permit applications and improving the way government institutions process requests.
The agenda includes plans to explore electronic detention and other technological solutions that could support the administration of justice.
Camera technology, artificial intelligence, and improved personal data protection are also identified as areas requiring further development.
The ministry intends to invest in modern equipment and strengthen the professional capabilities of personnel throughout the justice system.
Recruitment, training, and institutional integrity are among the priorities intended to improve the functioning of justice organizations.
Strengthening Cooperation Across the Justice System
The government also wants to improve cooperation between institutions responsible for law enforcement, detention, immigration, and other justice-related services.
According to the ministry, stronger coordination is essential to ensure that reforms are implemented effectively and that institutions can respond to the changing needs of Curaçao's population.
Cooperation with international and regional partners will remain part of the strategy, particularly in areas where legal and operational challenges require collaboration beyond the island.
Minister Hato described the 2025–2029 policy agenda as a commitment to strengthening justice, security, and human dignity.
The ministry says implementation will be monitored through performance indicators to assess whether the proposed initiatives are producing measurable results.
Although the agenda establishes the government's policy direction for the coming years, further decisions will be required to determine the financing, implementation schedules, and practical arrangements for major projects such as the new prison and proposed migration registration system.